US5157890A - Flooring - Google Patents

Flooring Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US5157890A
US5157890A US07/652,997 US65299791A US5157890A US 5157890 A US5157890 A US 5157890A US 65299791 A US65299791 A US 65299791A US 5157890 A US5157890 A US 5157890A
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
panel
track
receiving
aligning
flanges
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Fee Related
Application number
US07/652,997
Inventor
Michael D. Jines
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
WENGER Corp A CORP OF
Wenger Corp
Original Assignee
Wenger Corp
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Wenger Corp filed Critical Wenger Corp
Priority to US07/652,997 priority Critical patent/US5157890A/en
Assigned to WENGER CORPORATION, A CORP. OF MN reassignment WENGER CORPORATION, A CORP. OF MN ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST. Assignors: JINES, MICHAEL D.
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US5157890A publication Critical patent/US5157890A/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04BUILDING
    • E04FFINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F15/00Flooring
    • E04F15/02Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
    • E04F15/04Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements only of wood or with a top layer of wood, e.g. with wooden or metal connecting members
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04BUILDING
    • E04BGENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B5/00Floors; Floor construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted therefor
    • E04B5/02Load-carrying floor structures formed substantially of prefabricated units
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04BUILDING
    • E04FFINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F2201/00Joining sheets or plates or panels
    • E04F2201/05Separate connectors or inserts, e.g. pegs, pins, keys or strips
    • E04F2201/0523Separate tongues; Interlocking keys, e.g. joining mouldings of circular, square or rectangular shape

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to building construction.
  • it relates to a flooring system, including floor panel assemblies, wherein individual panels are interengaged to create a floor surface.
  • Pre-fabricated floors and subfloors for permanent use in various kinds of buildings are known.
  • such systems comprise a supporting framework and an overlying floor material such as a plurality of panels or sheet material. Individual panels or floor material may be attached to the framework by various means.
  • Portable flooring such as portable stage flooring or false floors for providing space for conduits in buildings are known as well.
  • This type of floor generally includes a framework for supporting moveable individual panels. The panels may have an edge adapted to be fitted with other abutting panel edges or with the supporting framework.
  • Such floor systems may find particular applicability in temporary buildings such as on-site construction offices or other temporary structures. Additionally, such systems may be used as temporary floors in buildings under construction.
  • Another problem is that when a flooring surface is provided by a plurality of adjacent panels with abutting edges, the individual panels may deflect or be depressed relative to one another as weight is put on them.
  • shims or fasteners have been used to control the deflection, but shims frequently require much time or effort to install, expending expensive manhours and increasing construction costs.
  • a related problem is that with the passage of time, the shims may work free, generating expensive remedial work.
  • the present invention provides a flooring system that can be quickly, accurately and easily installed in various sorts of buildings, including temporary structures, pre-fabricated building or permanent structures such as factories, homes or offices.
  • the flooring system broadly consists of individual panel assemblies that may be cooperatively interengaged.
  • the periphery of each panel is bound by extruded frame members having two spaced generally parallel flanges and a generally perpendicular web extending therebetween.
  • the frame members On one side of the web, between the upper and lower flanges, the frame members include track for receiving a key block.
  • the key block comprises a generally rectangular base with a key tongue extending therefrom.
  • the base is slidably received in the track of one frame member and the tongue is received in the track of an adjacent frame member.
  • the fame members may be miter cut to a desired length and the corners fastened together by a corner fastener.
  • a feature of the present invention is that the frame members may be fastened together in any desired configuration for forming a plurality of interlocking complimentary floor panels.
  • the panels are lightweight and convenient to store, transport and install.
  • Another feature of the present invention is interengaging of individual panels, whereby the surface of adjacent panels can be aligned and kept in alignment even when substantial weight or force is exerted downwardly on one panel.
  • It is an object of he present invention to provide a flooring system comprises of a plurality of adjacent complimentary, interengaged, framed panels that minimizes the deflection of adjacent panels, providing a more secure and aesthetically pleasing floor.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide a durable flooring system that is inexpensive and cost effective to manufacture and requires no special tools to install. Additionally, the floor system may be installed temporarily in one location, yet easily may be taken apart, moved and reinstalled at another location.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view depicting a pre-fabricated dwelling of a type in which the present invention may be used.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view depicting the flooring system of the present invention and a typical support structure therefore.
  • FIG. 3 is a top plan view depicting the interengagement of individual floor panels into the flooring system of the present invention.
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view depicting a single floor panel with portions broken away.
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view depicting a joining element for the floor system of the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 is a fragmentary sectional view taken along line 6--6 in FIG. 4.
  • FIG. 7 is a side elevational view depicting a support stake with which the present invention might be used.
  • FIG. 8 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view depicting a portion of one of the extruded frame members of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9 is a view similar to that of FIG. 8, depicting a fastener secured in a frame member.
  • FIG. 10 is a fragmentary sectional view taken along line 10--10 in FIG. 3.
  • FIG. 11 is a perspective view depicting a corner fastener for use with the present invention.
  • FIG. 12 is a fragmentary sectional view similar to that of FIG. 10 depicting a second embodiment of the corner fastener for use with the present invention.
  • FIG. 13 is a perspective view depicting the second embodiment of the corner fastener.
  • FIG. 14 is a fragmentary perspective view depicting the second embodiment of the corner fastener installed at a corner.
  • the flooring system 20 of the present invention is depicted.
  • the system 20 is made up of a plurality of individual floor panels 22 each having a frame 24.
  • FIG. 1 A pre-fabricated building 26 of the type in which the flooring system 20 of the present invention might be used is depicted in FIG. 1.
  • the building includes a roof 28, wall panels 30 and windows 32.
  • An access door 34 and an entry stoop 36 are depicted as well.
  • the floor system 20 of the present invention may be supported within the building 26 by the foundation 38 or by the second floor frame 40. It is within the scope of the present invention that the flooring system 20 of the present invention might be used in buildings having more than two stories; the building 26 depicted in FIG. 1 is representational only.
  • the foundation 38 of the building 26, as well as the second floor frame 40 may be typical sill and joist type foundations or frames upon which the floor system 20 of the present invention may rest.
  • the floor system 20 may be used with a supporting frame or foundation of the type depicted in FIG. 2.
  • a plurality of stakes 42 support a support member 44.
  • Individual floor panels 22 comprising the flooring system 20 rest on the support member 44.
  • a stake is depicted in FIG. 7 and includes a shank 46 having a point 48 at one end and a support channel 50 at the opposite end.
  • a wooden stake 42 is depicted, but other suitable materials, as well as lengths, may be used.
  • a "block-type" support member 44 is depicted in FIG. 2, an I-beam support member 45 (depicted in FIG. 10) may be used with the present invention.
  • FIG. 4 depicts an individual floor panel assembly 22.
  • the floor panel 22 has central flooring material 54 with a central area 53.
  • the perimeter or edge of the flooring material 54 is bound and enclosed by extruded frame members 56.
  • the frame members 56 broadly are modified I-beams including a generally central key track 58 on the outer side thereof.
  • the key track 58 extends continuously for the length of a frame member 56 and receives a selected number of key blocks 60.
  • Each key block 60 depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6 comprises a general rectangular key block base 62 having an upper key bar 64 and a lower key bar 66. Extending from one side of the base 62, each key block 60 includes a rectangular tongue 68. The tongue has upper and lower chamfered edges 70.
  • FIGS. 8 and 9 depict how the finish floor material 54 or subfloor 55 may be secured to and cladded by the extruded frame members 56.
  • the extruded frame member 56 includes a fastening flange 78 having an upper surface 79 with a flashing channel 80 and an opposite bottom surface having a fastener point groove 82.
  • FIG. 9 depicts the fastening flange 78 with a fastener 84 driven therethrough into a wooden subfloor member 55.
  • a flashing burr 81 is depicted in the flashing channel 80, provided so that the burr 81 does not displace or raise the subfloor 55 away from the fame member 56 and fastening flange 78.
  • the groove 82 is continuous along the length of the frame member 56, as is the flashing channel 80.
  • the frame member 56 includes a lower flange 90 and an upper flange 92.
  • the fastening flange 78 is basically an extension of the upper flange 92. Opposite the fastening flange 78 and adjacent its outermost edge, the upper flange 92 has an upstanding lip 93.
  • a central, generally upstanding web 94 extends between and is generally perpendicular to the upper and lower flanges 92, 90 respectively.
  • the frame member 56 has a key track 96.
  • the key track 96 includes a lower channel 98 and an upper channel 100.
  • the upper and lower channels 98, 100 are dimensioned to receive closely the upper and lower key bars 64,66 of the key block 60.
  • the frame member 56 include upper and lower corner fastening slots 102, 104, respectively.
  • the slots 102, 104 extended into the member 56, are collinear with the web 94 and have serrated or ridged inner surfaces 106.
  • the slots 102, 104 are generally centrally located with respect to the upper and lower flanges 90,92 and extend through the thickness of the flanges 90,92 into the web 94. It is within the scope of the present invention that upper and lower slots 102, 104 be provided as depicted or, alternatively, only an upper or only a lower slot may be used.
  • the upper flange 92 has a relatively larger outer surface area than the lower flange 90, extending inwardly toward the center 53 of the floor panel assembly 22 farther than the lower flange 90. Adjacent the innermost edge 107 of the upper flange 92, a screw fastener 84 is received in the point groove 82 and flashing channel 80 (as depicted in FIGS. 8 and 9). A staple-like corner fastener 108 is in the slots 102, 104.
  • FIG. 11 is a perspective view depicting the corner fastener 108.
  • the fastener 108 has a generally L-shaped body with a base knife edge 110 and a flat upper surface 112.
  • Vertical knife ribs 114 are provided on the sides 116 of the fasteners 108.
  • Horizontal knife ribs (not depicted) also might be used.
  • FIGS. 12-14 depict a second embodiment of the present invention and, in particular, a second embodiment of an extruded frame member 210 and a fastener 211.
  • the frame member 210 of the second embodiment includes upper and lower flanges 212,214 and a generally central web 216 extending perpendicularly therebetween.
  • the upper surface of the upper flange 212 includes a fastener flange 217 having a fastener receiving slot 218.
  • the outermost side of the frame member 210 relative to the general center of the flooring material 220 includes a key track 222, having a lower channel 224 and an upper channel 226.
  • the key block 60 depicted in FIG. 12 is substantially similar to the key block 60 depicted in FIG. 10 and is numbered commonly with the key block 60 of FIG. 10.
  • FIG. 13 shows the corner fastener 211 used to secure the frame members 210 together at the corners of a floor panel 22.
  • the second embodiment of the corner fastener 211 is a generally flat side fastener in an angle cut L-shape.
  • the facing sides 238 of the L-shaped body of the second fastener 211 include tab receiving notches 240.
  • FIG. 14 depicts additional detail about how the second embodiment corner fastener 211 is received and fixed in a channel 218 in the frame member 210.
  • a mitered corner 239 is depicted, a 45° cut having been made in two elongated sections of frame member material, creating frame members 210 and 210a.
  • the upper and inside ledge 242 of the channel 218 includes a plurality of deflectable tabs 244.
  • the tabs 244 may be located at regular intervals along the ledge 242 or may be provided at intermittent intervals along the ledge 242.
  • the floor system 20 of the present invention may be installed on a block type member 44, a foundation 38 with a sill and joist arrangement, or an I-beam type support 45.
  • the individual floor panels 22 are manufactured and assembled.
  • the size and perimeter configuration of the floor panels 22 may be selected and the required lengths of the extruded frame members 56 may be made by making miter cuts at 45° for rectangular or square panels. Appropriate joining cuts may be made for other geometric shapes for the panel 22.
  • a selected number of key blocks 60 may be slidably installed in the block receiving tracks 58 prior to connecting the frame members 56 at the corners of a panel 22.
  • the key blocks 60 are freely slidable along the length of the track 58, whereby their positions relative to other adjacent floor panels 22 may be varied. Also, interference with electrical or other conduits in the building structure may be avoided by sliding the blocks 60 to an appropriate location.
  • a block 60 may be placed approximately every two feet around the perimeter of a floor panel 22.
  • first corner fastener 108 is a friction-type fastener and is designed to be interference fit in slots 102, 104.
  • the framing members 56 are aligned and the corner fastener 108 may be driven or hammered into tight frictional engagement at the intersection of the frame members 56, thereby holding the frame members 56 in the desired geometrical arrangement.
  • Subfloor panels 55 may be laid in place on the top of the frame members 56 within the confines of the lip 93. Screw fasteners 84 may be driven into the subfloor panel 55 through the upper flange 92 or 217 (in the second embodiment). Finally, a finish floor layer 54 may be installed over the subfloor panel 55.
  • supplemental structural beams 57 may be used to span the distance between the frame members 56 either longitudinally or transversely.
  • the structural beams 57 depicted in FIGS. 6 and 10 are typical I-shaped beams having angle-cut ends 59. The ends 59 enable the beams 57 to be supported adequately on the upper surface of the inside lip 91 of the lower flange 90, yet be rotated into place without interference from the frame members 56.
  • Additional screw fasteners 84 may be used along the length of the beams 57 to secure the subfloor panel 55 to beams 57 after they have been rotated into place between the panel 55 and the lip 91.
  • FIG. 3 depicts a portion of the floor system 20 of the present invention as it might be installed in the building 26. Specifically, a number of individual floor panels 22 (as depicted in FIG. 4) have been laid tightly adjacent to one another. The tongue 68 of the key block 60 in one key track 58 of one floor panel 22 extends sufficiently far outwardly therefrom to enter the key track 58a of an adjacent floor panel assembly 22a. It should be appreciated that this engagement, carried across the extent of the floor system 20, aligns the adjacent panels and provides a substantial degree of structural integrity, preventing the deflection of adjacent panels 22,22a as weight is applied unequally to the upper surface thereof.
  • the floor system 20 of the present invention is lightweight, durable and can be assembled without requiring specially adapted tools.
  • the material of choice for the extruded frame members 56 is aluminum; however, any suitable lightweight metallic or plastic material may be used a long as sufficient rigidity and tolerances are obtained.
  • the key blocks may be made from many suitable materials; nylon is one such material.
  • the subfloor and finish floor material also may be selected from a variety of appropriate material.

Abstract

The present invention provides a flooring system that can be quickly, accurately and easily installed in various sorts of buildings, including temporary structures, pre-fabricated buildings or permanent structures such as factories, homes or offices. The flooring system broadly consists of individual panel assemblies that may be cooperatively interengaged. The periphery of each panel is bound by frame members having two spaced generally parallel flanges and a generally perpendicular web extending therebetween. On one side of the web, between the upper and lower flanges, the frame members include a track for receiving a key block. The key block comprises a generally rectangular base with a key tongue extending therefrom. The base is slidably received in the track of one frame member and the tongue is received in the track of an adjacent frame member. The frame members may be miter cut to a desired length and the corners fastened together by a corner fastener.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to building construction. In particular, it relates to a flooring system, including floor panel assemblies, wherein individual panels are interengaged to create a floor surface.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Pre-fabricated floors and subfloors for permanent use in various kinds of buildings, including dwellings, industrial and office buildings, agricultural structures and others, are known. Generally, such systems comprise a supporting framework and an overlying floor material such as a plurality of panels or sheet material. Individual panels or floor material may be attached to the framework by various means.
Portable flooring such as portable stage flooring or false floors for providing space for conduits in buildings are known as well. This type of floor generally includes a framework for supporting moveable individual panels. The panels may have an edge adapted to be fitted with other abutting panel edges or with the supporting framework. Such floor systems may find particular applicability in temporary buildings such as on-site construction offices or other temporary structures. Additionally, such systems may be used as temporary floors in buildings under construction.
There are some problems which have not been completely addressed by existing flooring systems. One such problem is that it has been difficult to ensure that the upper surface of the plurality of panels comprising the floor or subfloor surface remains in horizontal alignment. Another problem is that it is difficult to maintain standardization of the various components comprising a floor system. For example, typical milled lumber has nominal dimensions only and there is always some variation. Builders frequently have to resort to shims or other devices to level the floor supports relative to one another or to level the floor panels with respect to one another and with respect to the supporting framework.
Another problem is that when a flooring surface is provided by a plurality of adjacent panels with abutting edges, the individual panels may deflect or be depressed relative to one another as weight is put on them. Again, traditionally, shims or fasteners have been used to control the deflection, but shims frequently require much time or effort to install, expending expensive manhours and increasing construction costs. A related problem is that with the passage of time, the shims may work free, generating expensive remedial work.
Clearly, there remains the need for a safe, durable and strong flooring system that substantially reduces cost of flooring, minimizes deflection in the floor system, yet is simple and cost effective to manufacture and install.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a flooring system that can be quickly, accurately and easily installed in various sorts of buildings, including temporary structures, pre-fabricated building or permanent structures such as factories, homes or offices. The flooring system broadly consists of individual panel assemblies that may be cooperatively interengaged. The periphery of each panel is bound by extruded frame members having two spaced generally parallel flanges and a generally perpendicular web extending therebetween. On one side of the web, between the upper and lower flanges, the frame members include track for receiving a key block. The key block comprises a generally rectangular base with a key tongue extending therefrom. The base is slidably received in the track of one frame member and the tongue is received in the track of an adjacent frame member. The fame members may be miter cut to a desired length and the corners fastened together by a corner fastener.
A feature of the present invention is that the frame members may be fastened together in any desired configuration for forming a plurality of interlocking complimentary floor panels. The panels are lightweight and convenient to store, transport and install.
Another feature of the present invention is interengaging of individual panels, whereby the surface of adjacent panels can be aligned and kept in alignment even when substantial weight or force is exerted downwardly on one panel.
It is an object of he present invention to provide a flooring system comprises of a plurality of adjacent complimentary, interengaged, framed panels that minimizes the deflection of adjacent panels, providing a more secure and aesthetically pleasing floor.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a durable flooring system that is inexpensive and cost effective to manufacture and requires no special tools to install. Additionally, the floor system may be installed temporarily in one location, yet easily may be taken apart, moved and reinstalled at another location.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view depicting a pre-fabricated dwelling of a type in which the present invention may be used.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view depicting the flooring system of the present invention and a typical support structure therefore.
FIG. 3 is a top plan view depicting the interengagement of individual floor panels into the flooring system of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view depicting a single floor panel with portions broken away.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view depicting a joining element for the floor system of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a fragmentary sectional view taken along line 6--6 in FIG. 4.
FIG. 7 is a side elevational view depicting a support stake with which the present invention might be used.
FIG. 8 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view depicting a portion of one of the extruded frame members of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a view similar to that of FIG. 8, depicting a fastener secured in a frame member.
FIG. 10 is a fragmentary sectional view taken along line 10--10 in FIG. 3.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view depicting a corner fastener for use with the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a fragmentary sectional view similar to that of FIG. 10 depicting a second embodiment of the corner fastener for use with the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view depicting the second embodiment of the corner fastener.
FIG. 14 is a fragmentary perspective view depicting the second embodiment of the corner fastener installed at a corner.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring to FIG. 3, the flooring system 20 of the present invention is depicted. The system 20 is made up of a plurality of individual floor panels 22 each having a frame 24.
A pre-fabricated building 26 of the type in which the flooring system 20 of the present invention might be used is depicted in FIG. 1. The building includes a roof 28, wall panels 30 and windows 32. An access door 34 and an entry stoop 36 are depicted as well. The floor system 20 of the present invention may be supported within the building 26 by the foundation 38 or by the second floor frame 40. It is within the scope of the present invention that the flooring system 20 of the present invention might be used in buildings having more than two stories; the building 26 depicted in FIG. 1 is representational only.
Although the details are not depicted, the foundation 38 of the building 26, as well as the second floor frame 40, may be typical sill and joist type foundations or frames upon which the floor system 20 of the present invention may rest.
Alternatively, the floor system 20 may be used with a supporting frame or foundation of the type depicted in FIG. 2. A plurality of stakes 42 support a support member 44. Individual floor panels 22 comprising the flooring system 20 rest on the support member 44. A stake is depicted in FIG. 7 and includes a shank 46 having a point 48 at one end and a support channel 50 at the opposite end. A wooden stake 42 is depicted, but other suitable materials, as well as lengths, may be used. Likewise, although a "block-type" support member 44 is depicted in FIG. 2, an I-beam support member 45 (depicted in FIG. 10) may be used with the present invention.
FIG. 4 depicts an individual floor panel assembly 22. The floor panel 22 has central flooring material 54 with a central area 53. The perimeter or edge of the flooring material 54 is bound and enclosed by extruded frame members 56. The frame members 56 broadly are modified I-beams including a generally central key track 58 on the outer side thereof. The key track 58 extends continuously for the length of a frame member 56 and receives a selected number of key blocks 60.
Each key block 60, depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6 comprises a general rectangular key block base 62 having an upper key bar 64 and a lower key bar 66. Extending from one side of the base 62, each key block 60 includes a rectangular tongue 68. The tongue has upper and lower chamfered edges 70.
FIGS. 8 and 9 depict how the finish floor material 54 or subfloor 55 may be secured to and cladded by the extruded frame members 56. Specifically, the extruded frame member 56 includes a fastening flange 78 having an upper surface 79 with a flashing channel 80 and an opposite bottom surface having a fastener point groove 82. FIG. 9 depicts the fastening flange 78 with a fastener 84 driven therethrough into a wooden subfloor member 55. A flashing burr 81 is depicted in the flashing channel 80, provided so that the burr 81 does not displace or raise the subfloor 55 away from the fame member 56 and fastening flange 78. The groove 82 is continuous along the length of the frame member 56, as is the flashing channel 80.
Additional detail regarding the extruded frame member 56 is depicted in FIG. 10. The frame member 56 includes a lower flange 90 and an upper flange 92. The fastening flange 78 is basically an extension of the upper flange 92. Opposite the fastening flange 78 and adjacent its outermost edge, the upper flange 92 has an upstanding lip 93. A central, generally upstanding web 94 extends between and is generally perpendicular to the upper and lower flanges 92, 90 respectively. Between the upper and lower flanges 92, 90 on the outside of the web 94 and the frame member 56, the frame member 56 has a key track 96. The key track 96 includes a lower channel 98 and an upper channel 100. The upper and lower channels 98, 100 are dimensioned to receive closely the upper and lower key bars 64,66 of the key block 60.
The frame member 56 include upper and lower corner fastening slots 102, 104, respectively. The slots 102, 104 extended into the member 56, are collinear with the web 94 and have serrated or ridged inner surfaces 106. The slots 102, 104 are generally centrally located with respect to the upper and lower flanges 90,92 and extend through the thickness of the flanges 90,92 into the web 94. It is within the scope of the present invention that upper and lower slots 102, 104 be provided as depicted or, alternatively, only an upper or only a lower slot may be used.
The upper flange 92 has a relatively larger outer surface area than the lower flange 90, extending inwardly toward the center 53 of the floor panel assembly 22 farther than the lower flange 90. Adjacent the innermost edge 107 of the upper flange 92, a screw fastener 84 is received in the point groove 82 and flashing channel 80 (as depicted in FIGS. 8 and 9). A staple-like corner fastener 108 is in the slots 102, 104.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view depicting the corner fastener 108. The fastener 108 has a generally L-shaped body with a base knife edge 110 and a flat upper surface 112. Vertical knife ribs 114 are provided on the sides 116 of the fasteners 108. Horizontal knife ribs (not depicted) also might be used.
FIGS. 12-14 depict a second embodiment of the present invention and, in particular, a second embodiment of an extruded frame member 210 and a fastener 211. Like the first embodiment frame member 56, the frame member 210 of the second embodiment includes upper and lower flanges 212,214 and a generally central web 216 extending perpendicularly therebetween. The upper surface of the upper flange 212 includes a fastener flange 217 having a fastener receiving slot 218. The outermost side of the frame member 210 relative to the general center of the flooring material 220 includes a key track 222, having a lower channel 224 and an upper channel 226.
The key block 60 depicted in FIG. 12 is substantially similar to the key block 60 depicted in FIG. 10 and is numbered commonly with the key block 60 of FIG. 10.
FIG. 13 shows the corner fastener 211 used to secure the frame members 210 together at the corners of a floor panel 22. Specifically, the second embodiment of the corner fastener 211 is a generally flat side fastener in an angle cut L-shape. The facing sides 238 of the L-shaped body of the second fastener 211 include tab receiving notches 240.
FIG. 14 depicts additional detail about how the second embodiment corner fastener 211 is received and fixed in a channel 218 in the frame member 210. A mitered corner 239 is depicted, a 45° cut having been made in two elongated sections of frame member material, creating frame members 210 and 210a. The upper and inside ledge 242 of the channel 218 includes a plurality of deflectable tabs 244. The tabs 244 may be located at regular intervals along the ledge 242 or may be provided at intermittent intervals along the ledge 242.
In use, the floor system 20 of the present invention may be installed on a block type member 44, a foundation 38 with a sill and joist arrangement, or an I-beam type support 45.
First, the individual floor panels 22 are manufactured and assembled. The size and perimeter configuration of the floor panels 22 may be selected and the required lengths of the extruded frame members 56 may be made by making miter cuts at 45° for rectangular or square panels. Appropriate joining cuts may be made for other geometric shapes for the panel 22.
A selected number of key blocks 60 may be slidably installed in the block receiving tracks 58 prior to connecting the frame members 56 at the corners of a panel 22. The key blocks 60 are freely slidable along the length of the track 58, whereby their positions relative to other adjacent floor panels 22 may be varied. Also, interference with electrical or other conduits in the building structure may be avoided by sliding the blocks 60 to an appropriate location. Generally, a block 60 may be placed approximately every two feet around the perimeter of a floor panel 22.
Next, either the first embodiment corner fastener 108 or the second embodiment corner fastener 211 is selected, depending upon which embodiment of the frame members 56 or 210 is selected. The first corner fastener 108, depicted in FIG. 10, is a friction-type fastener and is designed to be interference fit in slots 102, 104. The framing members 56 are aligned and the corner fastener 108 may be driven or hammered into tight frictional engagement at the intersection of the frame members 56, thereby holding the frame members 56 in the desired geometrical arrangement.
Subfloor panels 55 may be laid in place on the top of the frame members 56 within the confines of the lip 93. Screw fasteners 84 may be driven into the subfloor panel 55 through the upper flange 92 or 217 (in the second embodiment). Finally, a finish floor layer 54 may be installed over the subfloor panel 55.
It should be appreciated that a selected number of supplemental structural beams 57 (depicted in FIG. 6 and 10) may be used to span the distance between the frame members 56 either longitudinally or transversely. The structural beams 57 depicted in FIGS. 6 and 10 are typical I-shaped beams having angle-cut ends 59. The ends 59 enable the beams 57 to be supported adequately on the upper surface of the inside lip 91 of the lower flange 90, yet be rotated into place without interference from the frame members 56. Additional screw fasteners 84 may be used along the length of the beams 57 to secure the subfloor panel 55 to beams 57 after they have been rotated into place between the panel 55 and the lip 91.
FIG. 3 depicts a portion of the floor system 20 of the present invention as it might be installed in the building 26. Specifically, a number of individual floor panels 22 (as depicted in FIG. 4) have been laid tightly adjacent to one another. The tongue 68 of the key block 60 in one key track 58 of one floor panel 22 extends sufficiently far outwardly therefrom to enter the key track 58a of an adjacent floor panel assembly 22a. It should be appreciated that this engagement, carried across the extent of the floor system 20, aligns the adjacent panels and provides a substantial degree of structural integrity, preventing the deflection of adjacent panels 22,22a as weight is applied unequally to the upper surface thereof.
The floor system 20 of the present invention is lightweight, durable and can be assembled without requiring specially adapted tools. The material of choice for the extruded frame members 56 is aluminum; however, any suitable lightweight metallic or plastic material may be used a long as sufficient rigidity and tolerances are obtained. Likewise, the key blocks may be made from many suitable materials; nylon is one such material. The subfloor and finish floor material also may be selected from a variety of appropriate material.

Claims (7)

What is claimed and desired to be protected by Letters Patent is:
1. Panel assembly for a flooring system comprising:
a plurality of panels, each panel having a central region and a perimeter;
framing means for cladding said perimeter, said framing means fixedly attached to said panel, substantially rigid and comprising upper and lower parallel flanges with a web extending generally perpendicularly therebetween, said web having an inner face and an outer face, said outer face comprising an elongated tack; and
locking means slidably received and permanently secured in said framing means for integrating each said panel into said flooring system, said locking means comprising a base with upper and lower slide means receivable within said track and a tongue means extending outwardly from said base for being received in the frame means of an adjacent panel assembly.
2. The panel assembly according to claim 1, wherein said track extends substantially completely between said upper and lower flanges, the areas of said track adjacent said flanges comprising upper and lower channels complimentary to said upper and lower slide means whereby said slide means fits closely in said channels, said track further including an opening between said upper and lower channels, said opening for receiving said tongue means.
3. The panel assembly according to claim 2, wherein said upper flange has a top, outer surface having an upstanding lip adjacent the edge thereof.
4. The panel assembly according to claim 2, wherein said upper flange guide means for aligning fastening means for fastening said panel to said framing means.
5. A floor system comprising:
a plurality of substantially adjacent panels, each said panel including a central region and a cladding frame, said frame directly attached to said panel and extending around the edge of said panel and comprising upper and lower flanges parallel to said panel and a web extending generally perpendicularly between said flanges, said web having a central region facing side and an opposite side, said opposite side comprising an aligning means receiving track;
a support means contacting said cladding frame, said support means for supporting said floor system; and
aligning means for aligning said adjacent panels, said aligning means including a key having a base slidably received and permanently secured in said aligning means receiving track of a first said panel and a tongue receivable in the adjacent said aligning means receiving tack of a second said panel.
6. The panel assembly according to claim 1, wherein said upper and lower flanges include slots for receiving a corner fastener at each corner of said framing means, said corner fastener having an L-shaped body with knife ribs for contacting the sides of said slot.
7. The panel assembly according to claim 1, wherein said framing means includes a generally flat channel for receiving a corner fastener at each corner of said framing means, said corner fastener having a generally flat L-shaped body with tab receiving notches, said framing means further including tabs that can be deflected into said tab receiving notches.
US07/652,997 1991-02-07 1991-02-07 Flooring Expired - Fee Related US5157890A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US07/652,997 US5157890A (en) 1991-02-07 1991-02-07 Flooring

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US07/652,997 US5157890A (en) 1991-02-07 1991-02-07 Flooring

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US5157890A true US5157890A (en) 1992-10-27

Family

ID=24619075

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US07/652,997 Expired - Fee Related US5157890A (en) 1991-02-07 1991-02-07 Flooring

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (1) US5157890A (en)

Cited By (29)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5553432A (en) * 1994-09-09 1996-09-10 Levin; Michael Horizontal forming block with curved side wall for architectural structures
US5848501A (en) * 1992-07-31 1998-12-15 Wenger Corporation Modular portable system
US5881527A (en) * 1995-04-21 1999-03-16 Hasco, L.P. Portable precast concrete slabs for storage facility
US5893245A (en) * 1996-02-27 1999-04-13 Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation Panel with holding frame
US5937793A (en) * 1997-02-10 1999-08-17 Faroex Ltd. Flooring system for farrowing pen
US6119423A (en) * 1998-09-14 2000-09-19 Costantino; John Apparatus and method for installing hardwood floors
US6128881A (en) * 1998-10-22 2000-10-10 Sico Incorporated Portable floor
US6173548B1 (en) * 1998-05-20 2001-01-16 Douglas J. Hamar Portable multi-section activity floor and method of manufacture and installation
US6189283B1 (en) 1995-12-05 2001-02-20 Sico Incorporated Portable floor
EP1098048A1 (en) 1999-11-08 2001-05-09 Premark RWP Holdings, Inc. Interconnecting disengageable flooring system
US6324809B1 (en) 1997-11-25 2001-12-04 Premark Rwp Holdings, Inc. Article with interlocking edges and covering product prepared therefrom
US6345481B1 (en) 1997-11-25 2002-02-12 Premark Rwp Holdings, Inc. Article with interlocking edges and covering product prepared therefrom
US6449918B1 (en) 1999-11-08 2002-09-17 Premark Rwp Holdings, Inc. Multipanel floor system panel connector with seal
EP1312728A3 (en) * 2001-11-14 2003-11-12 Dietrich Poburski Flooring tile
US6729075B2 (en) 2000-10-19 2004-05-04 Wenger Corporation Audience seating system
US20040211137A1 (en) * 2003-02-07 2004-10-28 Thiede Martin E. Modular floor
US20060185287A1 (en) * 2005-02-24 2006-08-24 Glazer Kenneth B Portable floor and method of manufacture and installation
US20060196138A1 (en) * 1996-06-11 2006-09-07 Unilin Beheer B.V. Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US20060254182A1 (en) * 2005-04-13 2006-11-16 Cerasi Mark A Sub-flooring assembly and method
US20070113492A1 (en) * 2005-11-10 2007-05-24 Sico Incorporated Portable floor
US20090250295A1 (en) * 2008-04-07 2009-10-08 Laws David J Portable Elevated Platform
US7614197B2 (en) 1999-11-08 2009-11-10 Premark Rwp Holdings, Inc. Laminate flooring
US8627631B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2014-01-14 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US9255414B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2016-02-09 Pergo (Europe) Ab Building panels
US9290936B2 (en) 2014-02-10 2016-03-22 Sico Incorporated Portable floor
US9464443B2 (en) 1998-10-06 2016-10-11 Pergo (Europe) Ab Flooring material comprising flooring elements which are assembled by means of separate flooring elements
US9464444B2 (en) 2010-01-15 2016-10-11 Pergo (Europe) Ab Set of panels comprising retaining profiles with a separate clip and method for inserting the clip
US9593491B2 (en) 2010-05-10 2017-03-14 Pergo (Europe) Ab Set of panels
US11118615B2 (en) * 2019-04-04 2021-09-14 Hunan University Of Technology Locking connector and sheet material

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1913290A (en) * 1931-07-24 1933-06-06 Byrd C Rockwell Inlay flooring construction
US2607454A (en) * 1947-04-07 1952-08-19 Claude C Brooks Mounting structure for windows
US2924858A (en) * 1956-10-16 1960-02-16 Couse Mfg Inc Structural panel member
US3685222A (en) * 1970-06-10 1972-08-22 Joan Curtess Prefabricated building structure
GB1332297A (en) * 1970-11-09 1973-10-03 Parfrement B Building blocks and structures made therefrom
US3973368A (en) * 1974-12-23 1976-08-10 Moeller Wolfgang W Ceiling tile assembly
US4438613A (en) * 1981-06-25 1984-03-27 Decoustics Limited Suspended ceiling panel system

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1913290A (en) * 1931-07-24 1933-06-06 Byrd C Rockwell Inlay flooring construction
US2607454A (en) * 1947-04-07 1952-08-19 Claude C Brooks Mounting structure for windows
US2924858A (en) * 1956-10-16 1960-02-16 Couse Mfg Inc Structural panel member
US3685222A (en) * 1970-06-10 1972-08-22 Joan Curtess Prefabricated building structure
GB1332297A (en) * 1970-11-09 1973-10-03 Parfrement B Building blocks and structures made therefrom
US3973368A (en) * 1974-12-23 1976-08-10 Moeller Wolfgang W Ceiling tile assembly
US4438613A (en) * 1981-06-25 1984-03-27 Decoustics Limited Suspended ceiling panel system

Cited By (103)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5848501A (en) * 1992-07-31 1998-12-15 Wenger Corporation Modular portable system
US6106186A (en) * 1992-07-31 2000-08-22 Wenger Corporation Modular portable stage system
US5553432A (en) * 1994-09-09 1996-09-10 Levin; Michael Horizontal forming block with curved side wall for architectural structures
US5881527A (en) * 1995-04-21 1999-03-16 Hasco, L.P. Portable precast concrete slabs for storage facility
US6189283B1 (en) 1995-12-05 2001-02-20 Sico Incorporated Portable floor
US5893245A (en) * 1996-02-27 1999-04-13 Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation Panel with holding frame
US7665265B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-02-23 Unlin Beheer B.V. Floor panels with edge connectors
US20060248829A1 (en) * 1996-06-11 2006-11-09 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US9290951B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2016-03-22 Unilin Beheer B.V. Floor panels with edge connectors
US8997429B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2015-04-07 Unilin Beheer B.V. Floor panels with edge connectors
US8789334B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2014-07-29 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US8365494B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2013-02-05 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US8166723B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2012-05-01 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7827754B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-11-09 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7827755B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-11-09 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7810297B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-10-12 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7770350B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-08-10 Unilin Beheer B. V., besloten vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7677008B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-03-16 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7735288B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-06-15 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7726089B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-06-01 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7712280B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-05-11 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7707793B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-05-04 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7698868B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-04-20 Unilin Beheer B.V. Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US20060196138A1 (en) * 1996-06-11 2006-09-07 Unilin Beheer B.V. Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7698869B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-04-20 Unilin Beheer B.V. Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US20060236635A1 (en) * 1996-06-11 2006-10-26 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US20060236633A1 (en) * 1996-06-11 2006-10-26 Moriau Stefan S G Floor panels with edge connectors
US7681371B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-03-23 Unilin Beheer B.V. Floor panels with edge connectors
US7654054B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-02-02 Uniliin Beheer B.V. besloten vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US20060272263A1 (en) * 1996-06-11 2006-12-07 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US20070094987A1 (en) * 1996-06-11 2007-05-03 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7669376B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-03-02 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US20070251188A1 (en) * 1996-06-11 2007-11-01 Unilin Beheer B.V., Bestloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US20080066416A1 (en) * 1996-06-11 2008-03-20 Moriau Stefan S G Floor panels with edge connectors
US7669377B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-03-02 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7665268B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-02-23 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7665267B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-02-23 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7665266B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-02-23 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7644555B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-01-12 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7644557B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-01-12 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Method of making floor panels with edge connectors
US7644554B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-01-12 Unilin Beheer B.V. Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7647741B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-01-19 Unilin Beheer B.V. Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7647743B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-01-19 Unilin Beheer B.V. Besloten Vennootschap Method of making floor panels with edge connectors
US7650727B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-01-26 Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7650728B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-01-26 UNILIN BEHEER BV besloten vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7673431B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-03-09 Unilin Beheer B.V. besloten, vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7658048B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-02-09 Unilin Beheer B.V. Besloten Vennootschap Floor panels with edge connectors
US7661238B2 (en) 1996-06-11 2010-02-16 Unilin Beheer B.V., besloten, vennootshap Floor panels with edge connectors
US5937793A (en) * 1997-02-10 1999-08-17 Faroex Ltd. Flooring system for farrowing pen
US6345481B1 (en) 1997-11-25 2002-02-12 Premark Rwp Holdings, Inc. Article with interlocking edges and covering product prepared therefrom
US6324809B1 (en) 1997-11-25 2001-12-04 Premark Rwp Holdings, Inc. Article with interlocking edges and covering product prepared therefrom
US6173548B1 (en) * 1998-05-20 2001-01-16 Douglas J. Hamar Portable multi-section activity floor and method of manufacture and installation
US6119423A (en) * 1998-09-14 2000-09-19 Costantino; John Apparatus and method for installing hardwood floors
US9464443B2 (en) 1998-10-06 2016-10-11 Pergo (Europe) Ab Flooring material comprising flooring elements which are assembled by means of separate flooring elements
US6128881A (en) * 1998-10-22 2000-10-10 Sico Incorporated Portable floor
US7614197B2 (en) 1999-11-08 2009-11-10 Premark Rwp Holdings, Inc. Laminate flooring
EP1098048A1 (en) 1999-11-08 2001-05-09 Premark RWP Holdings, Inc. Interconnecting disengageable flooring system
US6449918B1 (en) 1999-11-08 2002-09-17 Premark Rwp Holdings, Inc. Multipanel floor system panel connector with seal
US6769217B2 (en) 1999-11-08 2004-08-03 Premark Rwp Holdings, Inc. Interconnecting disengageable flooring system
US6460306B1 (en) 1999-11-08 2002-10-08 Premark Rwp Holdings, Inc. Interconnecting disengageable flooring system
US9677285B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2017-06-13 Pergo (Europe) Ab Building panels
US9316006B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2016-04-19 Pergo (Europe) Ab Building panels
US9260869B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2016-02-16 Pergo (Europe) Ab Building panels
US9255414B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2016-02-09 Pergo (Europe) Ab Building panels
US10156078B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2018-12-18 Pergo (Europe) Ab Building panels
US9534397B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2017-01-03 Pergo (Europe) Ab Flooring material
US9611656B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2017-04-04 Pergo (Europe) Ab Building panels
US10233653B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2019-03-19 Pergo (Europe) Ab Flooring material
US10626619B2 (en) 2000-03-31 2020-04-21 Unilin Nordic Ab Flooring material
US9388585B1 (en) 2000-06-20 2016-07-12 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US9388586B1 (en) 2000-06-20 2016-07-12 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US8631625B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2014-01-21 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US8793958B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2014-08-05 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US10407920B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2019-09-10 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US8904729B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2014-12-09 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US10125498B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2018-11-13 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US9068356B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2015-06-30 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US9234356B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2016-01-12 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US8627631B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2014-01-14 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US9856657B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2018-01-02 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US9624676B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2017-04-18 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US9482013B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2016-11-01 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US9394699B1 (en) 2000-06-20 2016-07-19 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US9334657B2 (en) 2000-06-20 2016-05-10 Flooring Industries Limted, Sarl Floor covering
US9376823B1 (en) 2000-06-20 2016-06-28 Flooring Industries Limited, Sarl Floor covering
US6729075B2 (en) 2000-10-19 2004-05-04 Wenger Corporation Audience seating system
US6922947B2 (en) 2000-10-19 2005-08-02 Wenger Corporation Audience seating system
US20050252095A1 (en) * 2000-10-19 2005-11-17 Wenger Corporation Audience seating system
US20040189065A1 (en) * 2000-10-19 2004-09-30 Wenger Corporation Audience seating system
US7107734B2 (en) 2000-10-19 2006-09-19 Wenger Corporation Audience seating system
EP1312728A3 (en) * 2001-11-14 2003-11-12 Dietrich Poburski Flooring tile
US20040211137A1 (en) * 2003-02-07 2004-10-28 Thiede Martin E. Modular floor
US7874115B2 (en) 2003-02-07 2011-01-25 Wenger Corporation Modular floor
US20060185287A1 (en) * 2005-02-24 2006-08-24 Glazer Kenneth B Portable floor and method of manufacture and installation
US20060254182A1 (en) * 2005-04-13 2006-11-16 Cerasi Mark A Sub-flooring assembly and method
US7461482B2 (en) * 2005-04-13 2008-12-09 Cerasi Mark A Sub-flooring assembly and method
US20070113492A1 (en) * 2005-11-10 2007-05-24 Sico Incorporated Portable floor
US7621091B2 (en) * 2005-11-10 2009-11-24 Sico Incorporated Portable floor
US20090250295A1 (en) * 2008-04-07 2009-10-08 Laws David J Portable Elevated Platform
US9464444B2 (en) 2010-01-15 2016-10-11 Pergo (Europe) Ab Set of panels comprising retaining profiles with a separate clip and method for inserting the clip
US9593491B2 (en) 2010-05-10 2017-03-14 Pergo (Europe) Ab Set of panels
US9290936B2 (en) 2014-02-10 2016-03-22 Sico Incorporated Portable floor
US11118615B2 (en) * 2019-04-04 2021-09-14 Hunan University Of Technology Locking connector and sheet material

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US5157890A (en) Flooring
US9366030B2 (en) Wall panel system
US5245803A (en) Connector means for roof panels and a method for installation thereof
US6427407B1 (en) Modular building panels and method of constructing walls from the same
US5361554A (en) Prefabricated deck system
US5483778A (en) Modular panel system having a releasable tongue member
US6694700B1 (en) Fastener attaching frame members of a patio enclosure
US6209282B1 (en) Framing studs for the construction of building structures
US3877193A (en) Metal wall frame construction
US4418507A (en) Interior wall system
US20060032157A1 (en) Seismic wall system
US4080766A (en) Demountable partition structure
US4471590A (en) Interior wall system
US3818653A (en) Prefabricated building structure
US4090339A (en) Preformed structural panel member
US20120240514A1 (en) Wall system
US4430834A (en) Building construction system
EP0623182A1 (en) Improved building structure and method of use
US7743566B2 (en) Structure having multiple interwoven structural members enhanced for resistance of multi-directional force
US20020020140A1 (en) Interconnectable studs and tracks for a building system
US4594828A (en) Building construction system including a profile extrusion used as a universal structural member and assembly clips therefor
GB2199599A (en) Base structures for structure to be added to buildings
US20070119843A1 (en) Wall framing system
US3841040A (en) Building structures
DE8134190U1 (en) "FASTENING ELEMENTS FOR INSULATED FACADE PANELS"

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: WENGER CORPORATION, A CORP. OF MN, MINNESOTA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST.;ASSIGNOR:JINES, MICHAEL D.;REEL/FRAME:005606/0399

Effective date: 19910131

CC Certificate of correction
REMI Maintenance fee reminder mailed
LAPS Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees
FP Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee

Effective date: 19961030

STCH Information on status: patent discontinuation

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362